CHARLESTON, W.Va., USA (Sept. 6, 2023) – In a high-tension atmosphere at the Charleston Coliseum and Convention Center, the NORCECA Men’s Senior Continental Championship is heating up as teams battle for a spot in the semifinals.
Canada showcased their prowess by sweeping Mexico 3-0 (25-18, 25-18, 25-20), thereby topping Pool A and securing their spot straight into the semifinals. Canadian outside hitter, Eric Loeppky, was the star of the match, leading all scorers with 13 points. He was ably supported by Stephen Maar, who chipped in with 11 points. On the other hand, Mexico’s Luis Hernadez Baca tried to hold the fort with 11 points. Mexico will now face the Dominican Republic to decide second place in the pool.
The home crowd had much to cheer about as the USA triumphed over Puerto Rico with an impressive 3-0 (25-14, 25-18, 25-12) scoreline. U.S. outside hitter T.J. DeFalco’s stellar performance saw him finish with 12 points, making him the only player in the match to score in double figures. Matt Anderson and Jake Hanes contributed seven points each, while Puerto Rico’s top performer was Klistan Lawrence with seven points on attacks.
However, the most anticipated clash lies ahead as the United States (2-0) prepares to take on Cuba (2-0) to determine the pool winner. The victor will bypass the quarterfinals and advance directly to the semifinals.
Earlier in the day, Cuba set the tone by sweeping Suriname 3-0 (25-11, 25-19, 25-23). Cuban outside hitters Osniel Mergarejo and Jose Miguel Gutierrez Suarez were in fine form, both finishing with 14 points. Zefanio Brienburg of Suriname showcased his skills with 11 points.
Pool A
Canada vs. Mexico 3-0 (25-18, 25-18, 25-20)
Pool B
Cuba vs. Suriname 3-0 (25-11, 25-19, 25-23)
USA vs. Puerto Rico 3-0 (25-14, 25-18, 25-12)
